Skowhegan Outdoors

Trail Maintenance & Volunteer Supper | July 7, 2026
2026-07-07 16:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | ME
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Lend a hand caring for the trails we all love, then gather for a small supper to celebrate the work. Skowhegan Outdoors provides tools, guidance, and a meal—you bring the energy and good company. All skill levels welcome; no experience necessary.
Suggested gear: closed-toe work shoes, long pants, work gloves, and a water bottle (tools provided).

Skowhegan Log Days: Guided Mountain Bike and Trail Run | July 9, 2026
2026-07-09 16:30 - 18:30 | Coburn Woods, Skowhegan, United States
Guided Mountain Bike Ride & Trail Run
Thursday, July 9, 2026 | 4:30pm – 6:30pm
Coburn Woods
Kick off Skowhegan Log Days on the trails with a guided group mountain bike ride and trail run, offered side by side so riders and runners can start the weekend together.
Program Type: Guided Group Experience
Cost: Free
Includes:

Guided ride or guided run leaving from the same trailhead
Route options for a range of abilities
Skowhegan Outdoors guides on course
Loaner mountain bikes and helmets available on request [confirm]

What to Expect
his is the relaxed, social opening to Log Days weekend. Runners and riders gather at the trailhead, split into pace-friendly groups, and head out on a guided loop through Coburn Woods. All abilities welcome; routes can be shortened or extended to match the group.
What to Bring (Additional)

Mountain bike and helmet (gear available)
Trail running or athletic shoes
Water and a snack
Weather-appropriate layers
Bug spray

Skowhegan Log Days: Glowstick Paddle | July 9, 2026
2026-07-09 19:00 - 21:00 | Cleaver Boat Landing, Skowhegan, United States
Glowstick Paddle
Thursday, July 9, 2026 | 7:00pm – 9:00pm
Cleaver Boat Launch, Skowhegan
Close out the first night of Skowhegan Log Days with our annual after-dark paddle, lighting up the Kennebec with glowsticks as the sun goes down.
Program Type: Guided Group Paddle
Cost: Free
Includes:

Glowsticks to light up your boat
Canoe, kayak, or SUP, paddle, and PFD if you need one (first come, first serve)
Skowhegan Outdoors guides leading and sweeping the group
A flatwater route suitable for all experience levels

What to Expect
As dusk settles over the river, paddlers gather at the Cleaver Boat Launch, deck out their boats with glowsticks, and set off together on a calm, guided evening paddle up Wesserunsett Stream. Bring your own canoe, kayak, or paddleboard, or reserve one from us in advance. A magical way to experience the river at night and a Log Days tradition for all ages.
What to Bring (Additional)

Your own boat, paddle, and PFD (or reserve gear in advance)
A headlamp or small light
Layers — it cools off on the water after dark
Water shoes or strappy sandals
A dry bag for anything you don’t want to get wet

Skowhegan Log Days: Log Jamboree | July 10, 2026
2026-07-10 16:00 - 18:00 | Great Eddy Beach, Skowhegan, 53 Joyce Street, Skowhegan, ME, 04976, United States
Log Jamboree: Great Eddy Beach Treasure Hunt
Friday, July 11, 2026 | 4:00pm – 6:00pm
Great Eddy Beach, Skowhegan
Part scavenger hunt, part paddle, all treasure — families take to the water at Great Eddy Beach to track down floating “logs,” hidden tokens, and river loot scattered across the calm waters of the eddy.
Program Type: Family Paddle Adventure
Cost: Free
Includes:

Canoe, kayak, or SUP, paddle, and PFD (gear available at request)
Skowhegan Outdoors guides on the water throughout
A treasure map and collection bag for each boat
Prizes for collected treasure, redeemable on the beach

What to Expect
Easter egg hunt — but on the river. Great Eddy’s slow, protected water and fine sand beach becomes a treasure field, with floating tokens and hidden “logger’s loot” tucked along the shoreline and bobbing across the eddy. Crews launch from the beach, follow their map, and paddle around collecting as much treasure on land and water as they can before time runs out, then bring their haul back to shore to trade for prizes.
It’s relaxed, family-friendly, and designed for first-time paddlers and little ones with a grown-up. Guides stay close the whole time, and the beach makes for an easy launch and landing. No experience needed — just bring your sense of adventure.
What to Bring (Additional)

Swimsuit or quick-dry clothes — you might get splashed
Water shoes or strappy sandals
Sunscreen and bug spray
Water and snacks
A towel and dry clothes
A waterproof phone case if you want photos

Where to Go
Parking available at 53 Joyce Street, Skowhegan, Maine

Skowhegan Log Days: River Race
2026-07-11 10:00 - 15:30 | New Balance Foundation Basecamp Gear Library, 65 Water St., Skowhegan, ME, 04976
Skowhegan Log Days River Race
Saturday, July 11, 2026

10:00am: Check-In at Skowhegan Outdoors Basecamp. Boat staging at Weston Dam Put-In
11:15am: Required safety & racer meeting at Weston Dam Put-In
12:00pm: Race Start @ 2-minute intervals
1:00pm: Shuttles begin back to Weston Dam Put-In
3:00pm: Awards at Basecamp Gear Library

Race the Kennebec from Weston Dam down to the Cleaver Boat Launch — fastest paddler takes home a $100 gift card to the local business of their choice.
Human powered vessels only!
Cost: $15 per racer
Includes:

Timed race from Weston Dam to Cleaver Boat Launch
Shuttle back to the start included
Skowhegan Outdoors safety crew on the water
$100 gift card to a local business of the winner’s choice for the fastest overall time
All participants will be entered into a raffle to win a new Old Town Canoe

What to Expect
This is the competitive heart of Log Days weekend on the water. Paddlers launch at Weston Dam and race downriver to the Cleaver Boat Launch, with every boat timed and the fastest run claiming the prize. Bring your own canoe, kayak, or paddleboard. Solo, tandem, or a full raft!
We’ll shuttle you and your boat back to the start, so all you have to focus on is the finish line. Open to experienced paddlers comfortable on moving water; a safety crew will be staged along the course.
What to Bring (Additional)

Your own boat and paddle (gear available upon request)
PFD (required)
Helmet (required)
Water shoes or strappy sandals
Layers and a change of dry clothes
Water and a snack for after the finish

Summer Learning Series: Learn To Mountain Bike
2026-07-13 08:00 - 2026-07-16 17:00 | ME
Develop core trail skills including body positioning, braking, climbing, and descending techniques. This program progresses from local Skowhegan trails to terrain at Maine Huts & Trails and includes an overnight at Stratton Brook Hut to build independence and resilience. Participants should be able to ride a bike, but no mountain bike specific expereience required.

Day 1: Trail foundations — Skowhegan
Day 2: Skill progression — Skowhegan
Day 3: Riding day/Overnight — Day 1 Maine Huts & Trails
Day 4: Riding day — Day 2 Maine Huts & Trails

Summer Learning Series General Information
Thank you for your interest in the Skowhegan Outdoors Youth Summer Learning Series! These programs are designed for youth ages 11–17 who are excited to spend time outside, try new things, build confidence, and learn outdoor skills in a supportive environment.
Programs may include paddling, whitewater kayaking, mountain biking, fishing, camping, hiking, coastal exploration, outdoor leadership, and stewardship activities. Each program is designed to meet participants where they are while encouraging teamwork, skill-building, and confidence outdoors.
Programs run from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. each day. Some programs may include overnight experiences. Families will receive additional details about daily meeting locations, packing lists, transportation, and overnight logistics before the start of each program.
Who Can Register
The Youth Summer Learning Series is open to youth ages 11–17. Beginners are welcome for most programs, and no prior outdoor experience is required unless noted in the specific program description. Some programs, such as Intermediate Whitewater Paddling, may require prior experience or instructor approval.
What’s Included
Thanks to generous funding and community support, programs are free to participate in unless otherwise noted. Each program includes:

Instruction from trained outdoor educators
Outdoor gear and equipment
Transportation during program hours
Daily lunch and snacks
Camping gear for overnight experiences, when applicable
A welcoming, supportive environment focused on learning and confidence-building

What Families Should Know
Participants should arrive prepared to be active outdoors each day. Programs will take place in a variety of outdoor settings, including trails, rivers, lakes, coastal areas, huts, and campsites depending on the specific program.
Families will be asked to provide important participant information during registration, including emergency contacts, medical information, allergies, dietary needs, swimming ability, previous experience, and any support needs that may help our staff create a positive experience.
For paddling-based programs, participants should be comfortable in and around water. Some programs may require participants to be able to swim.
Before the Program
As we get closer to the program date, Skowhegan Outdoors will follow up with additional information, including:

Drop-off and pick-up details
Daily schedule and locations
Packing list
Clothing recommendations
Overnight details, if applicable
Staff contact information

Please make sure the contact information provided during registration is accurate and checked regularly, as this is how we will share important updates.
Family Commitment
By registering, families are committing to having their youth attend the full program unless an emergency or illness prevents participation. These programs have limited space, and consistent attendance helps create a stronger experience for the full group.
Questions
For questions about registration, program fit, gear needs, accessibility, or whether a program is the right match for your youth, please contact Skowhegan Outdoors before registering.
We are excited to welcome your youth into a summer of outdoor learning, adventure, and confidence-building.

Outdoor Fitness Class | July 13, 2026
2026-07-13 17:30 - 18:30 | New Balance Foundation Basecamp Gear Library, 65 Water St., Skowhegan, ME, 04976
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Move your body outdoors with Skowhegan Outdoors and Kay Active Fitness. This free, all-levels class meets at the Basecamp Gear Library for a fun, approachable workout in the fresh air. No experience needed—just bring water and a willingness to move.
Suggested gear: athletic clothing, supportive sneakers, a water bottle, and a towel or mat.

Sunset Canoe | July 14, 2026
2026-07-14 20:00 - 21:30 | ME
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Spend a peaceful evening on the water with a guided sunset canoe outing at Lake George Regional Park. Watch the light shift over the lake as our guides lead an easy, all-levels paddle—canoes and gear provided. No experience necessary; just bring a sense of adventure.
Suggested gear: a layer for the evening, water shoes or sandals, and a water bottle (canoes and gear provided).

Teens & Tweens Night Out: Outdoor Crafts | July 15, 2026
2026-07-15 17:00 - 19:00 | New Balance Foundation Basecamp Gear Library, 65 Water St., Skowhegan, ME, 04976
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Tweens and teens are invited to the Basecamp Gear Library for an evening of outdoor fun and connection. This week’s theme is Outdoor Crafts—get creative with hands-on, nature-inspired projects, games, and time to hang out with friends. Free to attend; snacks provided.
Suggested gear: weather-appropriate clothing and a water bottle (snacks and supplies provided).

Skowhegan Run Club | July 16, 2026
2026-07-16 17:30 - 18:30 | New Balance Foundation Basecamp Gear Library, 65 Water St., Skowhegan, ME, 04976
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Join Skowhegan Outdoors and Kay Active Fitness for a free, all-levels community run starting and finishing at the Basecamp Gear Library. Lace up for an easy-going hour on the move, meet other runners, and enjoy the company of a supportive group. Walkers and new runners are always welcome—come at your own pace.
Suggested gear: comfortable running or walking shoes, weather-appropriate athletic clothing, and a water bottle.

Full-Day Whitewater Kayaking | T2 Moving Water Skills Clinic | July 17, 2026
2026-07-17 08:00 - 17:00 | ME
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Build Your Moving Water Skills
A full-day Tier 2 (T2) whitewater kayaking clinic for paddlers ready to move from flatwater onto moving current. Building on T1 fundamentals, this clinic focuses on eddy turns, ferrying, reading water, and boat control on Class I–II whitewater in a supportive, guided setting.
Program Type: Full-Day Guided Experience
Cost: $100 (under 18 are free!)
Includes:

Professional instruction
Whitewater kayak, paddle, helmet, PFD
Transportation from Skowhegan & gear transport
Lunch

What to Expect
This clinic builds confidence and control on moving water. We will begin the morning at the Basecamp Gear Library before traveling to the river, warming up on fundamentals and progressing into eddy turns, ferries, peel-outs, and reading current. Instruction emphasizes river safety, smart decision-making, and comfortable, repeatable technique on forgiving Class I–II features. Comfort with a wet exit and basic strokes (T1 or equivalent experience) is recommended. A full itinerary will be sent one week in advance.
Suggested gear: a swimsuit, a towel, water shoes or sandals, and a change of dry clothes (all paddling gear provided).
What to Bring (Additional)

Layers
Sunscreen and bug spray
Water and snacks
Towel and dry clothes
Water shoes or strappy sandals
Swimsuit or shorts

Cancellation Policy
More than 7 days prior to the program: Full refund3–7 days prior: 50% refund or full credit toward a future Skowhegan Outdoors programLess than 72 hours prior or no-show: No refund
Programs may be rescheduled or canceled by Skowhegan Outdoors due to weather, water levels, trail conditions, or safety concerns. In these cases, participants will receive a full refund or program credit.

Fresh Air Fridays | July 17, 2026
2026-07-17 12:00 - 13:00 | New Balance Foundation Basecamp Gear Library, 65 Water St., Skowhegan, ME, 04976
Fresh Air Fridays are a simple way to get outside, move your body, and enjoy a midday break in community. Join Skowhegan Outdoors for a relaxed hour outdoors that is open to all experience levels. Drop in, breathe deep, and reset for the weekend.
Suggested gear: comfortable clothing you can move in, sneakers, and a water bottle.

2-Day Whitewater Kayaking - T3 River-Ready Skills Clinic | July 18 - 19, 2026
2026-07-18 08:00 - 2026-07-19 17:00 | Skowhegan Outdoors Basecamp Gear Library, 65 Water Street, Skowhegan, ME, 04976, United States
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The Forks, Maine / Crusher Pool / Dead River
Become River-Ready
A two-day Tier 3 (T3) whitewater kayaking clinic structured as a progressive weekend for paddlers ready to put their skills together and run real whitewater. Building on T1 and T2, this clinic develops river-running confidence, combat-roll progressions, and safe group travel on moving water.
Program Type: 2-Day / Overnight Experience
Cost: $250
Includes: Professional instruction and guiding · Whitewater kayak, paddle, helmet, PFD · Transportation from Basecamp & gear transport · Meals · Lodging
What to Expect: This clinic is structured as a progressive learning weekend. Some time in a kayak should be under your belt before signing up (T2 or equivalent experience recommended), but a bombproof combat roll is not required.
Day 1 focuses on refining core skills—edging, bracing, ferries, eddy turns, and rolling progressions—in a controlled setting.
Day 2 applies those skills on a supported downriver run, emphasizing reading water, line choice, communication, and river safety. A full itinerary will be sent one week in advance.
What to Bring (Additional): Layers and warm non-cotton clothing · Sunscreen and bug spray · Water and snacks · Towel and dry clothes · Water shoes or strappy sandals · Swimsuit or shorts · Overnight gear (packing list provided)
Suggested gear: a swimsuit, a towel, water shoes, warm non-cotton layers, and overnight gear (packing list provided; all paddling gear provided).
Cancellation Policy
More than 7 days prior to the program: Full refund
3–7 days prior: 50% refund or full credit toward a future Skowhegan Outdoors program
Less than 72 hours prior or no-show: No refund
Programs may be rescheduled or canceled by Skowhegan Outdoors due to weather, water levels, or safety concerns. In these cases, participants will receive a full refund or program credit.

Downtown Rucksack Walk | July 20, 2026
2026-07-20 17:30 - 18:30 | New Balance Foundation Basecamp Gear Library, 65 Water St., Skowhegan, ME, 04976
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Join Skowhegan Outdoors and Kay Active Fitness for a Downtown Rucksack Walk—an accessible, low-impact way to build strength and endurance by walking with a weighted pack. We start and finish at the Basecamp Gear Library and welcome all fitness levels. Bring your own pack or borrow one from the gear library.
Suggested gear: sturdy walking shoes, a weighted pack (or borrow one from the gear library), and a water bottle.

Group Hike at Philbrick Woods | July 21, 2026
2026-07-21 17:00 - 18:30 | ME
Join Skowhegan Outdoors, supported by Somerset Woods Trustees, for a relaxed, all-levels group hike on local trails. It is a great way to explore the area, stretch your legs, and connect with other community members. Wear sturdy shoes and bring water.
Suggested gear: sturdy shoes or hiking boots, weather-appropriate layers, water, and bug spray.

Bike Maintenance 101 | July 21, 2026
2026-07-21 18:30 - 20:00 | New Balance Foundation Basecamp Gear Library, 65 Water St., Skowhegan, ME, 04976
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Learn the essentials of basic bike maintenance at this hands-on workshop at the Basecamp Gear Library. We will cover pre-ride checks, fixing a flat, cleaning and lubing your chain, and simple adjustments to keep you rolling. Bring your own bike or learn on ours—all experience levels welcome.
Suggested gear: your bike if you have one (or use ours) and closed-toe shoes—no tools required.

Skowhegan's Kennebec Gorge Family Paddle Trip | July 22, 2026
2026-07-22 16:00 - 18:00 | New Balance Foundation Basecamp Gear Library, 65 Water St., Skowhegan, ME, 04976
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Experience the Skowhegan Gorge on a guided, family-friendly paddle trip departing from the Basecamp Gear Library. Our guides lead the way as you take in the river and build confidence on the water—boats and gear provided. All ages and experience levels are welcome with a participating adult.
Suggested gear: a swimsuit, a towel, water shoes or sandals, and sunscreen (boats and paddling gear provided).

Skowhegan Run Club | July 23, 2026
2026-07-23 17:30 - 18:30 | New Balance Foundation Basecamp Gear Library, 65 Water St., Skowhegan, ME, 04976

Outdoor Movie Night: The Iron Giant | July 23, 2026
2026-07-23 20:45 - 22:15 | Coburn Park, Skowhegan, ME, United States
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Bring a blanket and the whole family for a free Outdoor Movie Night under the stars at Coburn Park. We will screen The Iron Giant once the sun goes down—settle in, relax, and enjoy a classic in the open air. Free and open to all.
Suggested gear: a blanket or camp chairs, bug spray, and a warm layer for after sundown.

Fresh Air Fridays | July 24, 2026
2026-07-24 12:00 - 13:00 | New Balance Foundation Basecamp Gear Library, 65 Water St., Skowhegan, ME, 04976

Intro to Whitewater Kayaking | T1 Free Flatwater Clinic | July 24, 2026
2026-07-24 17:00 - 19:00 | ME
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Curious about whitewater kayaking? This free Tier 1 (T1) flatwater clinic is the perfect first step. On calm water, you will get comfortable in a kayak and learn the fundamentals—outfitting and safety, getting in and out, the wet exit, and basic paddle strokes—in a relaxed, low-pressure setting.
All gear is provided and no experience is required. T1 is the entry point to the Skowhegan Outdoors whitewater progression that continues with the paid T2 (moving water) and T3 (river-ready) clinics.
Suggested gear: a swimsuit, a towel, water shoes or sandals, and a change of dry clothes (all paddling gear provided).

Skowhegan's Kennebec Gorge Family Paddle Trip | July 25, 2026
2026-07-25 11:00 - 14:00 | New Balance Foundation Basecamp Gear Library, 65 Water St., Skowhegan, ME, 04976

Full-Day Backpacking Trip - Moxie Bald Mountain | July 26, 2026
2026-07-26 07:00 - 17:00 | ME
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Full-Day Backpacking Trip
A guided full-day backpacking trip to Moxie Bald Mountain, designed to build hiking and trip-planning skills while exploring some of Maine’s best terrain. Travel, gear, and guiding are provided—you bring the willingness to put one foot in front of the other.
Program Type: Full-Day Guided Experience
Cost: $65 (under 18 are free!) [placeholder — confirm pricing]
Includes:

Professional guiding
Backpack and trip gear available to borrow
Transportation from Skowhegan
Trail snacks

What to Expect
We will meet early at the Basecamp Gear Library and travel together to the trailhead for a full day on the mountain. Along the way, our guides cover the essentials—what to pack, setting and sticking to turnaround times, pacing, layering, navigation basics, and Leave No Trace. The route is chosen to challenge and reward hikers of varying experience, with plenty of support along the way. A full itinerary and packing list will be sent one week in advance.
What to Bring (Additional)

Sturdy hiking shoes or boots
Layers and rain gear
Plenty of water
Lunch and snacks
Sunscreen and bug spray

Suggested gear: sturdy hiking boots, layers and rain gear, plenty of water, and a daypack (trip gear available to borrow).
Cancellation Policy
More than 7 days prior to the program: Full refund3–7 days prior: 50% refund or full credit toward a future Skowhegan Outdoors programLess than 72 hours prior or no-show: No refund
Programs may be rescheduled or canceled by Skowhegan Outdoors due to weather, water levels, trail conditions, or safety concerns. In these cases, participants will receive a full refund or program credit.

Full-Day Mountain Biking Trip | T2 Bike & Trail Foundations | July 27, 2026
2026-07-27 09:00 - 16:00 | ME
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Bike & Trail Foundations
A full-day Tier 2 (T2) mountain biking trip focused on building solid trail-riding foundations. We will travel to the trails at Carrabassett Valley for a guided day of skills and riding designed to grow your confidence on singletrack.
Program Type: Full-Day Guided Experience
Cost: $100 (under 18 are free!)
Includes:

Professional instruction
Mountain bike, helmet, and gear available to borrow
Transportation from Skowhegan & gear transport
Lunch

What to Expect
This trip builds core mountain biking skills in a supportive group setting. We will meet at the Basecamp Gear Library and travel to the trails together, warming up on fundamentals—body position, braking, shifting, cornering, and rolling over terrain—before putting them to use on the trail. Instruction emphasizes control, trail awareness, and riding within your limits. All experience levels welcome; bikes available to borrow. A full itinerary will be sent one week in advance.
What to Bring (Additional)

Layers and weather-appropriate clothing
Closed-toe athletic shoes
Sunscreen and bug spray
Water and snacks
Gloves (optional)

Suggested gear: closed-toe athletic shoes, weather-appropriate layers, gloves, and water (bike and helmet available to borrow).
Cancellation Policy
More than 7 days prior to the program: Full refund3–7 days prior: 50% refund or full credit toward a future Skowhegan Outdoors programLess than 72 hours prior or no-show: No refund
Programs may be rescheduled or canceled by Skowhegan Outdoors due to weather, water levels, trail conditions, or safety concerns. In these cases, participants will receive a full refund or program credit.

Outdoor Fitness Class | July 27, 2026
2026-07-27 17:30 - 18:30 | New Balance Foundation Basecamp Gear Library, 65 Water St., Skowhegan, ME, 04976

Trail Maintenance & Volunteer Supper | July 28, 2026
2026-07-28 16:00 - 20:00 | ME
Register!

Lend a hand caring for the trails we all love, then gather for a community meal to celebrate the work. Skowhegan Outdoors provides tools, guidance, and a meal—you bring the energy and good company. All skill levels welcome; no experience necessary.
Suggested gear: closed-toe work shoes, long pants, work gloves, and a water bottle (tools provided).

Basics of Paddleboarding | July 28, 2026
2026-07-28 17:00 - 18:30 | ME
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Join Wood & Water Yoga and Skowhegan Outdoors for Paddleboard (SUP) Yoga & Meditation on the calm waters of Lake George. Move through a gentle, all-levels flow on the board and settle into guided meditation as the evening sets in. Boards and gear provided; comfort in the water is helpful but no SUP experience is required.
Suggested gear: a swimsuit, a towel, and a water bottle (boards and gear provided).

Skowhegan's Kennebec Gorge Family Paddle Trip | July 29, 2026
2026-07-29 16:00 - 18:00 | New Balance Foundation Basecamp Gear Library, 65 Water St., Skowhegan, ME, 04976

Teens & Tweens Night Out: Hike & Ride | July 29, 2026
2026-07-29 17:00 - 19:00 | New Balance Foundation Basecamp Gear Library, 65 Water St., Skowhegan, ME, 04976
Register!

Tweens and teens are invited to the Basecamp Gear Library for an evening of outdoor fun and connection. This week’s theme is Hike & Ride—get outside for an evening of hiking and biking, games, and time with friends. Free to attend; snacks provided.
Suggested gear: weather-appropriate clothing and a water bottle (snacks and supplies provided).

Skowhegan Run Club | July 30, 2026
2026-07-30 17:30 - 18:30 | New Balance Foundation Basecamp Gear Library, 65 Water St., Skowhegan, ME, 04976
